Which statement best describes the role of the FADD in the response to FMD?

• A. They replace the state official
• B. They arrive after the state official directs next steps
• C. They assess the farm and rest of operations only
• D. They handle media inquiries

Answer: (B)

In an FMD response, the incident command structure places the state official in charge of decisions, while specialized teams like the FADD provide the hands-on, technical support to carry out those decisions. The FADD brings veterinary expertise, helps plan field actions, and coordinates surveillance, sampling, containment, and other on-the-ground activities under the direction of the state official and the incident command.

That means they arrive to support and implement the steps that the state official has directed, not to replace the official. They’re focused on technical execution and coordination, not on replacing leadership. They also don’t handle media inquiries—public communications are handled by a designated public information officer.